Are short-term rentals allowed in Palm Desert, CA?

Yes, short-term rentals are allowed in Palm Desert, subject to licensing and regulatory requirements.

Do I need a license to operate a short-term rental in Palm Desert, CA?

Yes, Palm Desert requires an STR license or permit to operate a short-term rental. The license fee is 29.

What is the lodging tax rate for short-term rentals in Palm Desert, CA?

The combined lodging tax rate in Palm Desert is 11%. and 11% local tax.

How strictly does Palm Desert enforce short-term rental regulations?

Palm Desert has high enforcement of STR regulations. Fines can reach up to $5,000 per violation.

What is the minimum stay requirement in Palm Desert?

Palm Desert requires a minimum stay of 2 nights for short-term rentals.

How many guests can stay at a short-term rental in Palm Desert?

The maximum occupancy for a short-term rental in Palm Desert is 20 guests.

How often must I renew my Palm Desert short-term rental license?

STR licenses in Palm Desert renew annual.

Palm Desert, CA STR Regulations 2026

Palm Desert requires all operators to obtain a Short-Term Rental Permit ($29 annually) to rent residential dwellings for 27 consecutive nights or less. STRs are prohibited in R1 and R2 zones except for On-Site Owner permits, and are allowed in DEO, RE, HPR, PR, and R3 zones, with HOA approval letters required annually in HOA communities. ADUs/JADUs, apartments, and timeshares cannot be used as STRs.

Licensing and Permits

Palm Desert requires hosts to obtain an STR license or permit before listing their property on platforms like Airbnb or VRBO.

Enforcement

Palm Desert has high enforcement of STR regulations. Operating without proper licensing or failing to comply with local regulations can result in citations, fines, and potential loss of your permit.

Get the full Palm Desert compliance guide

Tax rates, platform collection details, occupancy limits, operational requirements, and more.

Compiled from 8 official government sources and continuously monitored for changes. Always verify current requirements with your local municipality before making investment or operational decisions.

Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. STR regulations change frequently. Always verify current requirements with your local municipality before making investment or operational decisions.

Palm Desert, CA

Palm Desert is a high-enforcement market - fines reach $5,000 per violation

Is your Palm Desert property compliant?

Palm Desert is actively enforced and fines reach $5,000 per violation.

Palm Desert, CA Regulations Guide

Licensing and Permits

Enforcement

Stay compliant in Palm Desert